Do your workers regularly access, inspect, and maintain rooftop systems for your building? If so, proper rooftop fall protection is crucial. But with infrastructure limitations, hot work restrictions, and long lead times, building a proper fall protection system might feel difficult.
Rooftop HVAC units, mechanical equipment, and building systems often demand hours of regular maintenance. However, the truth is that servicing these systems regularly exposes workers to significant fall hazards. In fact, most Canadian provinces require fall protection systems for all work performed above 3 metres.
But here’s another roadblock: most passive fall protection solutions on the market require drilling into the roof, which isn’t permitted for many operations. Without temporary or non-penetrating options, workers face falling risks 24/7.
The Solution: Non-Penetrating Guardrails
Does the above situation sound familiar? If so, Northern Platforms has the ideal solution for you: the YellowGate RS rooftop fall protection system. This freestanding, mobile, and modular system delivers the same fall protection as anchored systems while leaving your roof membrane completely intact. Some key features of this product include:
42” (1067mm) tall, which meets OH&S compliance requirements
Lightweight and easy to assemble
Corrosion-resistant and easy to maintain
Some common applications include:
Rooftop HVAC maintenance: Seasonal filter changes, refrigerant servicing, and control system checks all require safe rooftop access. Non-penetrating guardrails provide fall protection without compromising the roof membrane.
Building envelope work: Temporary protection during roof inspections, parapet wall repairs, and facade maintenance becomes safer with portable guardrails that move with the work.
Industrial facilities: Rooftop process equipment, ventilation systems, and utility infrastructure demand regular access. Chemical plants, manufacturing facilities, and food processing operations use non-penetrating guardrails without creating penetration risks.
Other Rooftop Safety Products from Northern Platforms
Rooftop safety extends beyond guardrails. Northern Platforms supplies a complete range of modular access and fall protection solutions designed for rooftops and elevated work areas across Western Canada:
Modular Work Platforms: ErectaStep bolt-together platforms create safe elevated work surfaces for rooftop equipment access and maintenance. Configure platforms to fit your specific rooftop layout—no hot-work permits required.
Modular Stairs and Access: Pair modular work platforms with ErectaStep stairs for complete rooftop access systems.
Safety Gates and Swing Gates: YellowGate self-closing safety swing gates complement non-penetrating guardrail systems. Install at stairway landings, platform edges, or mezzanine openings for comprehensive fall protection.
For more information about building a complete OH&S-compliant rooftop safety system, contact Northern Platforms today.
Why Choose Northern Platforms
As an exclusive ErectaStep distributor for Western Canada, Northern Platforms is your go-to provider for modular work platforms, portable stairs, safety swing gates, and more. Here’s why you should choose us for your next rooftop safety project:
Modular platforms in stock now: We keep all elements of ErectaStep systems in stock at our Leduc warehouse, meaning we can have your order shipped to your site before the end of the week.
Rapid response time: Thanks to our in-stock inventory and central Alberta location, we offer project turnaround times that exceed expectations. For example, on a recent project, we quoted a project on Tuesday, shipped equipment on Wednesday, and the system was operational by Thursday.
One-stop shop: Keeping your facility safe and compliant can be difficult, especially if you are relying on multiple suppliers for multiple products. At Northern Platforms, we offer all the safety equipment you need under one roof. Count on us for rolling stairs, safety cages, mobile access units, safety swing gates, and more!
Local expertise: We’ve been serving Western Canada since 2002 and have served countless industries. We’ll bring our expertise, insights, and high-quality service to every single call.
Ready to upgrade your rooftop safety? Contact Northern Platforms for a no-obligation consultation. Our specialists will assess your rooftop access needs, recommend optimal non-penetrating guardrail configurations, and provide transparent proposals for supply and installation. We bring decades of experience delivering modular access platforms and rooftop fall protection across Western Canada—ensuring your systems protect workers, preserve warranties, and perform reliably for years to come. Call us or request a quote through our website now!
LPG loading and unloading operations demand precision, safety expertise, and specialized equipment. Understanding how LPG loading systems work is critical to protecting your workers, maintaining regulatory compliance, and optimizing operational efficiency. Interested in learning more about these systems? Keep reading for a deep dive into regulations, specifications, and processes of natural gas/LPG loading.
Natural Gas Loading Regulations and Standards
Natural gas and LPG operations are subject to several national and provincial regulations, including:
NFPA 58 (National Fire Protection Association) is the baseline North American standard, establishing requirements for container design, loading equipment, operator training, and more.
Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) is a federal regulation governing LPG transport by truck, rail, air, and vessel. TDG mandates container marking, driver training and certification, incident reporting, and emergency response protocols.
Finally, all Canadian provinces have relevant health and safety codes which establish worker protection, training, certifications, and more.
At Northern Platforms, we are experts in all regulations that apply to creating a safe and efficient fuel loading system. For more information about the rules that could apply to our site, call our office today.
How Natural Gas Loading Systems Work
While exact protocols might differ, here is a general overview of how a natural gas loading system might work:
Step 1: All equipment is grounded in order to prevent static electricity, which could result in fires.
Step 2: Loading arms connect to vessel connection points (two product lines and one vapour line for railcars; isolated compartments for trucks) using standardized couplers designed to minimize spillage and vapour release
Step 3: The transfer begins from the storage tank into the tanker truck or pressurized railcar through a loading arm. Meanwhile, displaced vapours are drawn back through the vapour line, which helps prevent excessive pressure buildup.
Step 4: Flow rates are carefully controlled to prevent pressure spikes. Similarly, temperature is continuously monitored in case of cooling or heating.
Step 5: Loading is completed, and operators record essential details, including ending tank levels, pressures, temperatures, and certification numbers.
Looking for more information about the best fuel loading arms for natural gas loading and unloading? Read our previous blog posts:
This material can be moved by both truck and rail; however, railcar LPG loading is more common in Alberta. Important specifications for both truck and railcar LPG loading are below:
LPG Railcar Loading
Specification
Details
Product Temperature
-1.1°C to 37.8°C (30°F to 100°F)
Design Temperature
-28.9°C to 43.3°C (-20°F to 110°F)
Operating Pressure
552–1034 kPa (80–150 psig)
Design Pressure
1724 kPa (250 psig)
Connection Size
5.08 cm diameter (2″ diameter)
Line/Arm Size
10.16 cm × 7.62 cm × 5.08 cm or 7.62 cm × 5.08 cm (4″×3″×2″ or 3″×2″)
LPG Truck Loading
Specification
Details
Product Temperature
-1.1°C to 37.8°C (30°F to 100°F)
Design Temperature
-28.9°C to 43.3°C (-20°F to 110°F)
Operating Pressure
3447 kPa (500 PSI)
Hydro Test Pressure
5171 kPa (750 PSI)
Connection Size
5.08 cm diameter (2″ diameter)
Line/Arm Size
7.62 cm × 5.08 cm (3″×2″)
Northern Platforms: Your Source for Fuel Loading Arms
As Western Canada’s safety experts, the Northern Platforms team knows the ins and outs of effective natural gas and LPG loading. From a compliant railcar loading platform to reliable loading arms, we can build an integrated system from top to bottom. Interested in learning more about how we can help? Contact our office today!
Runaway railcars, falls from height, product spills…these are just some of the risks of unsafe railcar loading systems. But did you know that you can easily prevent these dangers by investing in the proper equipment?
In this guide, we’ll explore some practical solutions to common railcar loading mistakes. With a couple of simple products from Northern Platforms, your Western Canadian operation will be safer and more efficient in no time.
Runaway Railcars
Here’s the truth: it only takes a small gust of wind to set your railcar rolling, causing accidents, equipment damage, and—in the worst-case scenario—worker injury. That’s why it is so important to properly secure your railcars during loading and unloading operations.
The Solution: Railcar Wheel Chocks
Transport Canada’s rules are clear: railcar wheel chocks are required for all parked railcars, especially during loading, unloading, or maintenance. These simple systems prevent unexpected movement and keep railcars stationary when it matters.
Falls from railcars represent one of the most serious hazards in loading operations—but many operations fail to have proper protections in place. Are your workers regularly accessing the tops of railcars? Without the right equipment, simple tasks turn into life-threatening situations.
The Solution: Railcar Fall Protection
Fall protection systems aren’t just a suggestion—they are a requirement. Alberta’s Occupational Health and Safety Code and BC’s WorkSafeBC regulations require fall protection for employees performing tasks at heights of three metres or more. At Northern Platforms, we specialize in providing railcar fall protection systems for Alberta and BC operations, including:
Permanent or mobile railcar loading platforms
Tracking and telescoping gangways
Tank car safety cages
And more!
Contact us for a complete site assessment and to start building your fall protection plan.
Uncontrolled Product Leaks
When you are dealing with hazardous materials, even the smallest spill can have serious consequences. Drips during connection or disconnection, accidental overfills, or other issues can impact your surrounding environment and violate local and national regulations.
The Solution: Spill Containment
While spills are never completely preventable, there are some systems that can help minimize the risk. For example, overfill prevention systems for loading arms are designed to detect spills immediately and shut off flow. Dry disconnects are another option that automatically close as soon as the coupling is unhooked.
Plus, you should also invest in railroad spill containment systems, such as track pans. These modular systems fit between and alongside tracks, capturing leaks and spills before they can seep into the ground or reach water sources.
Choose Northern Platforms for Railcar Wheel Chocks, Fall Protection, and More!
At Northern Platforms, we understand the unique challenges of railcar loading operations. Since 2002, we’ve been Western Canada’s trusted leader in supplying high-quality railcar loading racks, loading arms, safe access equipment, and fall protection systems that comply with all applicable regulations. Our team provides turnkey solutions custom-engineered to your specific needs, including:
Loading platforms with tracking gangways to accommodate railcar mis-spotting
Alberta OHS Code and WorkSafeBC-compliant fall protection systems and tank car safety cages
Top and bottom loading arms for safe material transfer
Railcar wheel chocks designed to comply with local regulations
Our experienced team will visit your site, assess your needs, and provide customized recommendations that integrate seamlessly into your existing operation.
Contact Us Today
Ready to start building a complete railcar safety system? Call Northern Platforms or request a quote through our website now!
British Columbia rail and industrial operations require robust fall protection and loading systems that comply with local regulations, help protect workers, and stand the test of time. Northern Platforms designs, supplies, and installs rail access systems, industrial platforms, and guardrails that do all this—and more. Keep reading to learn more about effective railcar loading systems in BC and how our company can help.
Railcar Loading Requirements in British Columbia
WorkSafe BC
In British Columbia, WorkSafeBC requires fall protection when workers can fall 3 m (10 ft) or where a lesser height presents greater risk than a flat‑surface impact, which commonly applies around rail loading racks, platforms, and mezzanine edges. Most sites use permanent guardrails to address these risks; however, these solutions aren’t practical for some sites. In these cases, BC requires a written plan before work begins and clear instructions to workers.
The Railway Safety Act
For facilities located on or working with federally regulated railway corridors (such as those operated by CN), additional obligations may apply. The Railway Safety Act addresses broader rail operational safety, including track maintenance, railway equipment, signal systems, grade crossings, dangerous goods handling, and the operating rules that control how workers and equipment interact with rail infrastructure. Northern Platforms designs systems that satisfy both provincial and national regulations, ensuring your facility meets all applicable requirements.
Complete Railcar Loading Systems for BC Operations
There are several elements of an ideal railcar loading system for British Columbia sites, including:
Railcar access systems: gangways, tank car safety cages, and guardrails designed to satisfy WorkSafeBC fall protection requirements.
Industrial access platforms and guardrails: fixed/modular platforms, mezzanine gates, and compliant guardrail systems meeting BC height and load criteria and acceptable standards.
Additional safety systems: Beyond fall protection, we stock a variety of products that promote safe railcar loading, including wheel chocks, blue flags, and more.
Additional Products for BC Operations
British Columbia’s diverse industries—from marine terminals to forestry operations—require specialized access and fall protection solutions beyond railcar loading systems. Northern Platforms supplies a complete range of products designed for BC’s unique operational environments:
Loading Arms: Upgrade your loading and unloading operations with OPW loading arms that are tailored to the needs of your industry. As a turnkey system provider, Northern Platforms will ensure your loading arms integrate seamlessly with your platforms and gangways.
Modular Platform Systems: Bolt-together ErectaStep platforms requiring no welding—ideal for pulp and paper mills, food processing facilities, and operations with hot-work permit restrictions.
For more information about building a complete WorkSafeBC-compliant system for your BC operation, contact Northern Platforms today.
Serving British Columbia Industries
Northern Platforms provides fall protection systems and loading equipment to operations across BC, including:
Vancouver
Prince Rupert
Mission
Courtenay
Get Started with Northern Platforms Today!
Your British Columbia railcar loading systems depend on design and installation that meet local conditions and WorkSafeBC regulations. Whether you are operating a Vancouver port facility, a Prince George transloading terminal, or an interior BC rail yard, Northern Platforms brings regional expertise and proven experience to every single contract. Plus, as a complete turnkey service provider, we can provide everything from comprehensive railcar loading system design to ongoing and consistent maintenance.
Ready to ensure your BC railcar loading systems meet local compliance and safety standards? Contact Northern Platforms for a no-obligation site assessment. Our specialists will evaluate your facility, recommend optimal solutions, and provide transparent proposals for supply and installation. Get in touch today to get started!
Northern Platforms is the Western Canadian leader in industrial access solutions, specializing in fall protection systems and turnkey installation services for oil and gas, petrochemical, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors. We supply some of the best products on the market, including SafeRack, ErectaStep, OPW, and more.
Truck loading platforms are the foundation of many operations across Alberta. But is your equipment really improving efficiency and safety on your site? We’ve previously discussed how the Northern Platforms team can assess your current system for overall efficiency and safety requirements. But did you know that we also offer preventative maintenance? Keep reading to learn more about this key service offering.
Truck Loading Platform Assessments
A robust truck loading platform system integrates multiple components working together to eliminate fall hazards and streamline operations:
Safe access equipment: Safety cages, gangways, and loading arms that provide secure pathways to elevated work areas
Engineered platforms: Rolling platforms and fixed truck loading platforms designed for specific trailer types and loading configurations
Site-fit controls: Solutions matched to your cargo properties, traffic flow, space constraints, and operational requirements
Preventative Maintenance for Truck Loading Platforms
In addition to our assessment services, the Northern Platforms team offers comprehensive preventative maintenance packages for all kinds of systems, including truck loading platforms. Most equipment manufacturers include scheduled maintenance requirements in their IOM manuals. These maintenance requirements are often a condition of warranty coverage for your truck loading platform. Our preventative maintenance programs include:
Visual inspection of welds, structural connections, and load-bearing components
Lubrication of pivot points, hinges, and moving assemblies
Hardware torque checks to ensure bolts and fasteners remain secure
Functionality testing of safety mechanisms, gates, and locking systems
Documentation of inspection findings and maintenance actions
The Key Benefit of Preventive Maintenance
Preventative maintenance matters because it catches problems when they’re small and inexpensive to fix—not when they’ve escalated into major component failures. For example, consider a loading arm with a minor seal leak. Caught early during a routine inspection by Northern Platforms, a seal kit replacement only costs $400 to $900 in parts and labour.
But if that leak is ignored, it can have a profound impact on your loading arm–often leading to swivel joint failures or other major issues. Replacing your loading arm can cost up to $10,000.
When you break it down like this, the answer is clear: preventative maintenance pays for itself 10 times over.
Why Choose Northern Platforms
Everything Northern Platforms supplies, we can install. This turnkey approach delivers several advantages over separating equipment procurement from installation and maintenance:
Warranty Protection: When the same company supplies and installs your truck loading platform, warranty coverage is iron-clad. There’s no ambiguity about whether installation errors voided manufacturer protections, and your installation will keep track of mandatory maintenance schedules.
Faster Timelines: A single point of contact means fewer scheduling delays, streamlined communication, and faster commissioning. In other words, your truck loading platform is operational sooner and serviced faster.
Correct Specification: Installation teams familiar with the equipment catch specification errors during site surveys, preventing costly rework or incompatible components.
One Stop Shop: Having Northern Platforms handle both supply and installation means accountability is crystal clear. If something needs attention, you know exactly who to call.
Contact Us Today!
Are you looking for a safety equipment supplier that does it all? Northern Platforms is the company for you. We bring decades of experience in installing and maintaining truck loading platforms across Western Canada, ensuring your systems perform safely, reliably, and cost-effectively for years to come. Call us to learn more and schedule your free site assessment today!
Alberta is home to one of the largest sources of bitumen (or heavy crude oil) in the world, and our local operations extract, transport, and process large quantities of this material every single day. Does your facility regularly deal with bitumen? If so, you’ll need a safe, reliable, and efficient bitumen loading system. Keep reading to learn more about the key elements of this system–and how Northern Platforms can help.
Key Takeaways
Bitumen is a thick and viscous petroleum by-product that only flows above 140°C. Below this threshold, it solidifies into a gelled mass that clogs equipment and forces costly shutdowns.
Standard, uninsulated loading arms fail to maintain ideal bitumen loading temperature, leading to recurring blockages, frequent maintenance, and premature equipment replacement.
Effective bitumen loading systems are comprised of several key elements, including a loading arm, heat management systems, and supporting infrastructure.
The Challenges of Bitumen Loading
Bitumen, also called heavy crude or crude oil, is a byproduct of crude oil refining, which is used in road construction, waterproofing, and industrial adhesives. When it comes to transporting this product, here’s the important part: it can be extremely difficult to load. In order for bitumen to flow—and be loaded effectively—operators have two options:
Dilute the product with a light petroleum product, which creates diluted bitumen (also called dilbit).
Use heat management and insulated loading systems to keep the product very hot (typically above 140°C)
No matter which method your operation uses, you’ll need an effective bitumen loading system. Keep reading to learn more about essential elements.
An OPW loading arm is the foundation of any good heavy crude loading system. OPW offers premium-grade top and bottom loading arms specifically engineered for asphalt, bitumen, and other high-temperature applications.
Configuration Options:
Fixed Reach Style Loading Arms: Ideal for standard truck loading applications where vehicles park consistently at the same position.
Supported or Unsupported Boom Style Loaders: Designed for longer reaches, multi-hatch access, or railcar loading where extended horizontal reach is required.
OPW loading arms are designed to integrate seamlessly with steam jacketing, steam tracing, and custom insulation packages, ensuring consistent product temperatures.
Heat Management Systems
As we’ve already mentioned, proper heavy crude loading relies on keeping the product (and loading arm) warm. Through our partnerships with OPW, Northern Platforms offers several insulation and heating solutions, including:
Custom Insulation Packages
2-inch insulation for superior heat retention.
Removable and reusable design for easy maintenance access.
Teflon-impregnated jackets for durability and corrosion resistance.
Engineered fit that preserves the full articulation range.
Electric Insulation
Electrical temperature maintenance keeps temperatures steady, which prevents products from solidifying and clogging systems.
Include a thermostat to help maintain a specific temperature.
Compliant with relevant safety regulations.
Steam Tracing
The boiler tube is strapped onto the core pipe.
Conductive heat transfer up to 350°F.
Cost-effective alternative for mid-range operations.
Steam Jacketing
Fully encloses the core pipe with an outer pipe.
Conductive steam-generated heat transfer enables loading process temperatures above 300°F.
Maintains product temperature throughout the loading cycle.
Eliminates cold spots and residual buildup.
Not sure which heat management or insulation option is right for you–and your budget? Contact Northern Platforms, and we can walk you through your options, including a rough cost estimate.
Supporting Infrastructure
Your loading arm doesn’t work in isolation. Instead, several systems operate together to help streamline bitumen loading and unloading. Other elements of a comprehensive bitumen loading system include:
Truck loading platforms or railcar loading platforms for worker safety.
Spill containment equipment to meet environmental regulations.
Dry disconnects and breakaway couplings for safe loading and emergency disconnection protection.
No matter what product you are handling, Northern Platforms has the equipment you need for safe and efficient operations. Interested in learning more about what we offer? Call our office today.
Why Choose Northern Platforms for Your Bitumen Loading System
There’s no question that heavy crude can be tough to load. But with the right equipment–supplied from a trusted provider–it’s easy to overcome these challenges. Northern Platforms partners with OPW to deliver complete bitumen loading solutions tailored to your site:
Expert site assessment: We evaluate your platform, vehicle types, and operational profile.
Custom arm selection: We specialize in top and bottom loading arms, including steam-jacketed arms designed specifically for asphalt and bitumen loading
Professional turn-key installation: As loading system experts, we will ensure your new loading arm is compatible with all your existing systems.
Ongoing maintenance and support: Preventative programs keep your system running year-round.
Contact Us Today
Ready to start building your bitumen loading system? The Northern Platforms team has got you covered. Contact us for more information and to receive a free quote today!
